How to Give a Dog a Massage

Whether you have a dog who works hard and is tender and sore at the end of the day or your dog is experiencing growing pains, or even an old dog who deals with pain and discomfort, you can learn to give him a massage to make him feel better and relax at the end of his day. Giving your dog a massage will help ease tension built up in his muscles, help him to relax, and potentially help him sleep. Massage your pup after exercise, upon waking, or at night to strengthen the bond you have with him and help his body feel better.

If your dog is not used to getting massages on a regular basis, he might flinch because his muscles could be tender and sore. Growing puppies and older dogs can both benefit from a massage. If this is new for you and your dog, ease into each session by working on one area at a time.

• At first, consider starting massages at bedtime. Your dog will be tired and more likely to be calm and settled.
  
• Just like you, your pup will have layers of muscles, some tight and some loose.
  
• Focus on areas that are hard, massaging the knots out with gentle slow circles.
  
• If your dog has been injured, a massage can help reduce inflammation and pain.
  
• Highly anxious dogs can also benefit from massages.
  
• Ease muscle tension and tightness with a massage during stressful times such as when company is coming, during a thunderstorm, before you leave the house, or during celebrations.
  
• Massages can improve circulation, sending blood to all areas of your dog’s body. With time, this could help injuries, pain, and overall immunity.
  
• Build trust with your dog by caring for him with some extra TLC and a massage. As the bond strengthens between you two, he will likely respect you more and listen more.
  
• Active dogs can benefit from a massage after playtime and activity.
  
• A massage at the end of your pup’s day can improve sleep and keep restlessness down to a minimum.
  

• Older dogs who suffer from stiff joints and arthritis might enjoy a daily massage.